Incisional Hernia Pain and Diastasis Recti: Relief with the Tupler Technique®

TLDR: If you suffer from both an incisional hernia and diastasis recti, the persistent pain and bulging you experience are likely connected. An incisional hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakened surgical scar, and a diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles) compromises the structural support of your core, making the hernia more pronounced and painful. The Tupler Technique® offers a non-surgical, 4-step program to address this dual challenge. By systematically strengthening your deep transverse abdominis muscle, repositioning the separated muscles with the Diastasis Rehab Splint®, and teaching you how to move correctly, the technique reduces intra-abdominal pressure, supports the hernia site, and provides significant pain relief, empowering you to regain core function and comfort.

Living with the discomfort of an incisional hernia can be a daily struggle, marked by a persistent bulge, aching pain, and a feeling of weakness in your core. When this condition is combined with diastasis recti—a separation of the outermost abdominal muscles—the symptoms can become even more pronounced and distressing. Many individuals feel trapped in a cycle of pain and frustration, believing that another surgery is their only option. However, what if there was a way to manage the pain, support the hernia, and strengthen your core without invasive procedures? The Tupler Technique® is a research-based program that addresses the root cause of this compounded problem, offering a path toward relief and renewed strength.

Understanding the Source of Pain: Incisional Hernia and Diastasis Recti

An incisional hernia is a type of ventral hernia that occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision. It develops when the abdominal wall, weakened by surgery, fails to heal completely, allowing abdominal tissue or part of an organ to push through. This creates a bulge near the scar, which can range from a small lump to a large protrusion. The pain associated with an incisional hernia often stems from the pressure on the surrounding tissues and the stretching of the abdominal wall. It can be a dull ache or a sharp pain, especially when you cough, lift something heavy, or stand for long periods.

Diastasis recti, on the other hand, is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, often referred to as the "six-pack" muscles. This separation occurs at the linea alba, the connective tissue that runs down the midline of your abdomen. While common after pregnancy, it can affect anyone, including men and children, and is frequently seen after abdominal surgery. A diastasis recti weakens the support structure of your abdominal wall, contributing to a bulging belly and often leading to back pain.

Why Diastasis Recti Makes Incisional Hernia Pain Worse

The connection between these two conditions is significant. Research has shown that diastasis recti is a major risk factor for developing an incisional hernia after midline abdominal surgery [1]. One study found that patients with a diastasis wider than 25mm were nearly four times more likely to develop an incisional hernia. When you have a diastasis recti, the structural integrity of your core is already compromised. The separated muscles are unable to properly support your organs and manage intra-abdominal pressure. This lack of support places additional stress on the already weakened area of your surgical incision, making it more susceptible to herniation.

Furthermore, the presence of a diastasis recti can exacerbate the pain of an existing incisional hernia. Without a functional core to stabilize your trunk, everyday movements can increase the pressure on the hernia site, leading to more pain and a larger bulge. It creates a vicious cycle: the diastasis weakens the core, which worsens the hernia, which in turn causes more pain and further limits your ability to engage your core muscles correctly.

The Tupler Technique®: A Non-Surgical Approach to Relief

The Tupler Technique® is a comprehensive, 4-step program designed to heal diastasis recti by strengthening and repositioning the abdominal muscles and connective tissue. When applied to individuals with both a diastasis and an incisional hernia, it offers a powerful, non-surgical method for pain relief and core restoration. The technique focuses on reducing intra-abdominal pressure and providing support to the weakened abdominal wall, which can alleviate the strain on the hernia site.

Step 1: Tupler Technique® Exercises for Gentle Core Strengthening

The cornerstone of the Tupler Technique® is a series of specific exercises that target the transverse abdominis (TVA), your deepest core muscle. The TVA acts as your body’s natural corset, and strengthening it is key to stabilizing your core. Unlike traditional abdominal exercises like crunches, which can increase pressure on the hernia and diastasis, the Tupler Technique® exercises are designed to be safe and effective. By learning to properly engage and strengthen your TVA, you create a natural support system for your abdomen, which can help to hold the hernia in and reduce pain.

Step 2: The Role of the Diastasis Rehab Splint® in Pain Reduction

The second step of the program involves wearing the Diastasis Rehab Splint®. This is not a restrictive binder, but a supportive device that gently repositions the separated abdominal muscles. For someone with an incisional hernia, the splint provides crucial external support to the weakened area, much like taping an injured joint. This support can immediately reduce the bulging and alleviate the pain associated with the hernia. The splint also serves as a tactile reminder to engage your transverse muscle throughout the day, helping you to maintain proper core activation.

Steps 3 & 4: Mindful Movement and Body Mechanics to Prevent Strain

The final two steps of the Tupler Technique® focus on developing transverse muscle awareness during daily activities and learning how to move in a way that protects your core. This includes simple but critical adjustments, such as how you get out of bed, lift objects, and even how you sit and stand. By avoiding movements that put undue pressure on your abdominal wall, you can prevent further strain on your incisional hernia and diastasis recti. This mindful approach to movement is essential for long-term pain management and preventing the condition from worsening.

Real Relief: What to Expect from the Tupler Technique®

By consistently following the 4 steps of the Tupler Technique®, individuals with an incisional hernia and diastasis recti can experience a significant reduction in pain and an improvement in core function. The program empowers you to take an active role in your healing journey, providing you with the tools and knowledge to manage your condition effectively. While the technique does not “cure” the hernia in the sense of closing the hole in the abdominal wall, it can dramatically reduce the symptoms to the point where surgery may no longer feel necessary. It strengthens the surrounding muscle and connective tissue, providing the support needed to keep the hernia contained and pain-free.

If you are struggling with the dual burden of an Incisional Hernia & Diastasis Recti, know that there are effective, non-surgical options available. The Tupler Technique® offers a safe and proven path to not just pain relief, but to a stronger, more functional core.